In July 2025, the Australian Government issued its response to the Senate Economics References Committee’s final report on Not-for-profit entities – Tax assessments. While the response stops short of major policy changes, it contains important clarifications that AuSAE members, especially those managing non-charitable NFPs, need to understand.

No New Requirement to Register with ACNC
 A central concern in the sector was whether the recent requirement to lodge a self-review return implied a new obligation for NFPs with only charitable purposes to register with the ACNC. The Government clarified this is not the case:

• Only NFPs seeking income tax exemption as charities must be registered with the ACNC, a rule in place since 2012.
• Non-charitable NFPs can remain outside the ACNC framework but must still complete the ATO’s self-review return if they wish to claim income tax exemption.

• The ATO is taking a practical compliance approach and will pre-populate future returns to reduce administrative effort.
• Entities without an ABN remain exempt from the requirement—reducing burden on some low-risk organisations.

• Introducing a turnover threshold to exempt small, low-risk NFPs.
• Extending the March 31, 2025 deadline—though the ATO retains the power to offer deferrals.
• Moving administration to the ACNC—deemed likely to increase, rather than decrease, compliance requirements for non-charity NFPs.

While no immediate relief is on offer, the Government’s response reinforces the importance of ongoing advocacy to ensure the voice of non-charitable NFPs is heard. AuSAE will continue to engage with Treasury, the ATO, and ACNC to reduce unnecessary burden and ensure guidance reflects the realities of small, volunteer-driven organisations.

AuSAE members invited to join sector-wide data project with exclusive 60% discount

The FY26 Not-for-Profit Remuneration Survey is now open - and AuSAE members are invited to take part in this critical, sector-strengthening initiative led by Enterprise Care, Australia’s trusted authority in NFP remuneration benchmarking.

In return for contributing your organisation’s salary data, you’ll unlock an exclusive 60% discount on the upcoming FY26 NFP Remuneration Portal, launching 27 October 2025. This interactive tool provides Australia and New Zealand’s most comprehensive and up-to-date salary benchmarking, helping leaders make confident, data-informed remuneration decisions.

All participants will also receive the Exclusive Insights Report, featuring detailed analysis of current trends, including CEO remuneration, provided CEO data is submitted.

Why your input matters:
Recent data highlights key challenges in NFP workforce retention and planning:

• Over 60% of candidates now expect higher salaries

• The top reason for turnover is salary dissatisfaction

• Pay has risen 5–7% over the past two years

• Over 50% of NFPs plan to hire in FY25

• Hybrid work is helping retain talent

By submitting data, quickly and confidentially, you’ll help strengthen transparency and build more accurate, real-world benchmarks that benefit the entire sector.

Even if you're unable to provide data, AuSAE members still receive a $100 discount on the Portal RRP, simply for being part of the network.

Start the survey now

For assistance, contact Tracy Portarianos at portarianost@enterprisecare.com.au or 0408 210 661.

Together, we can drive data-led change and build stronger, more equitable organisations.

We are sharing some exciting news that will build the strength and depth of AuSAE.

Since 1971, the Australian Council of Professions has been the unifying alliance of Professional Associations that represents close to 1 million Australian professionals including engineers, healthcare and computing professionals, veterinarians and accountants.

The Board and leadership of ACoP and AuSAE have recognised that, given our close alignment of goals, our capacity to serve our membership, much of which already overlaps, together is far greater.

As a result, ACoP is putting to their membership a plan to partner with us and become a dedicated chapter within AuSAE. This transition presents a unique opportunity to renew ACoP’s mission of advancing the standing of professions and promoting professionalism across Australia, while also growing AuSAE’s own offering, scale and relevance.

This transformation will enable ACoP to continue its legacy built over more than 50 years, while ensuring greater sustainability, relevance, and impact for both organisations.

ACoP membership will in the future be in addition to AuSAE organisational or individual membership.

ACoP members will soon receive a notice for a special general meeting and a special resolution to wind up the ACoP entity. This will include a vote to allow them to distribute surplus assets to AuSAE to enable the new Council of Professions chapter.

The planned official launch of the new AuSAE Council of Professions (ACoP) chapter will occur at ACE 2025 on 10 September 2025 at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne.

Celebrating New CAEs Across Australia and New Zealand

One hundred and twenty-nine association executives recently earned their Certified Association Executive (CAE®) credential from the CAE Commission of ASAE, joining more than 4,500 industry leaders around the globe.

AuSAE is proud to welcome two of our own to this accomplished group. Please join us in congratulating:

Rachael Corby, CAE
Head of Member Engagement & Experience
Australian Water Association – Artarmon, NSW

Jon Cullum, CAE
Executive Manager, Membership and Events
Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists – Melbourne, VIC

Earning the CAE credential is the highest professional designation in the association sector, globally recognised as a mark of excellence in leadership, strategic thinking, and association management.

Toni Brearley, CAE, Chief Executive Officer, AuSAE  said, “This is a significant achievement that reflects both Rachael and Jon’s commitment to the profession and their dedication to lifelong learning. We’re proud to celebrate with them as part of our growing CAE community across Australia and New Zealand.”

The CAE Program elevates professional standards, enhances individual performance, and recognises those who have demonstrated the knowledge essential to association leadership. The program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA).

Congratulations again, Rachael and Jon, we’re thrilled to celebrate this achievement with you. We are #CAEproud.

Learn more about the CAE credential: buff.ly/4cyy2UI
Read the full announcement from ASAE – The Center for Association Leadership: buff.ly/KwyqoQw

In a world where change is constant and complexity is the new normal, boards are facing unprecedented challenges—and opportunities.

From navigating digital transformation and ESG imperatives to managing workforce dynamics and stakeholder expectations, the role of stewardship has never been more critical.

But what are the real priorities keeping board members up at night in 2025? And how are they preparing to meet these challenges head-on?

That’s where you come in.

Why Your Input Matters

Enterprise Care is conducting a short, high-impact survey to uncover the Top Priorities and Challenges Facing Boards in 2025.

Your insights will help build a clearer picture of what’s driving boardroom conversations, decisions and strategies across sectors.

Whether you're a board member, executive, governance professional or advisor—your perspective is invaluable.

What You’ll Help Us Discover

• The most pressing issues boards are tackling today
• Emerging risks and opportunities shaping governance
• Shifts in boardroom dynamics, culture and leadership
• How boards are adapting to regulatory, technological and societal change

Quick. Easy. Impactful.

This survey takes just a few minutes to complete, but the impact of your contribution will be long-lasting. The findings will inform future tools, resources and thought leadership - helping boards stay agile, informed and highly effective.

Take the Survey Now

Click here to complete the survey

Your voice matters. Help us shape the future of your sector.

The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is proud to announce the appointment of three highly respected association leaders to its Board of Directors, following a recent member election.

Joining the AuSAE Board are:

• David Jenkins, Chief Executive Officer, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia
• Matt Connor CAE, Head of Communications & Corporate Services, Australian Water Association
• Vicki Mayo, Chief Executive Officer, Local Government Professionals Australia NSW

Each of these accomplished professionals brings a wealth of experience in association leadership and a shared passion for supporting and advancing those who lead associations across Australia and New Zealand.

They will join their fellow Board members, Craig Young CAE, Debra Cerasa, Nick Pilavidis CAE, Kirsty Kelly, and Robin Shepherd CAE, under the leadership of AuSAE President, John Winter CAE.

We would also like to extend sincere thanks and appreciation to outgoing Board members Lindsay McGrath CAE, Alan McDonald, and Greg Wallace for their invaluable service, dedication, and contribution to the sector during their tenure.

John Winter CAE, President of AuSAE and Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Property Institute, welcomed the new Directors, saying:

"These new appointments represent the strength and diversity of our sector. David, Matt, and Vicki bring deep insight and fresh energy to our leadership group, and I look forward to working alongside them to continue delivering meaningful value to our members. On behalf of the Board, I thank our outgoing Directors for their dedication and service to AuSAE and the sector."

We would like to express our gratitude to all the members who participated in the election process and congratulate the newly elected board members. 

-- Ends --

About AuSAE – Australasian Society of Association Executives
AuSAE is the professional home for association executives in Australia and New Zealand. We provide resources, education, networking opportunities, and a strong community to support those who lead and manage associations.

With a focus on excellence in association leadership, AuSAE empowers members to create lasting impact in the industries, professions, and communities they serve.

---
Media Contact:

Sarah Gamble
Marketing & Communications Manager
AuSAE – Australasian Society of Association Executives
sarah@ausae.org.au
www.ausae.org.au

Inland Revenue has just released a draft operational statement (ED0265) about the income tax treatment of transactions between not-for-profit associations (Mutual Associations) and their members. This statement is currently open for consultation and will significantly impact the tax obligations of a wide range of not-for-profit associations, including clubs, societies, cooperatives, and professional bodies.

• Historically, associations may not have paid tax on surpluses, but this is very likely to change going forward for most.

Our view is this clarification represents a tax on organisations that are not registered charities or otherwise exempt under specific sections of the Income Tax Act.

This is not a change in law but a clarification of IRD’s view. The statement aims to clarify the tax rules for amounts received by associations from transactions with their members. This is an area that has previously been unclear with varying treatment across different organisations.  

While there is a lot to consider in this document, our initial review has highlighted  concerns about membership subscriptions, fees, and levies becoming taxable, particularly for associations prohibited from distributing funds to members.

The new Incorporated Societies Act 2022 requires that re registered incorporated societies do not allow distributions to members – meaning that those entities are highly exposed.

One positive in the operational statement is it will apply prospectively from the date of publication, meaning Inland Revenue will not adjust past assessments.

Inland Revenue is seeking feedback on the interpretative approach and operational proposals in this statement. Comments are welcome until 25 June 2025. We will likely be making a submission and encourage you to provide feedback to Inland Revenue if you have any concerns or suggestions.

We will be considering this operational statement and how it works in practice along with some illustrative examples, so watch this space.  

For more information, contact:

Barry Baker 
Partner
Grant Thornton New Zealand
M  021 797 221
grantthornton.co.nz 

Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) is applauding the Government's move to eliminate a barrier to New Zealand hosting international medical conferences.

Trade show exhibitors will soon be allowed to showcase new products and research to medical practitioners in New Zealand following a Government announcement today (29 April).

In a joint statement, Hon David Seymour, Minister for Regulation, Hon Simeon Brown, Minister of Health, and Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston announced New Zealand laws will be reformed so medicines yet to be consented by Medsafe can be advertised at medical conferences in New Zealand.

Outdated regulations that hinder trained medical professionals from learning about new medicines through trade show advertising are out of step with other countries' laws and put New Zealanders at a disadvantage, Regulation Minister David Seymour and Health Minister Simeon Brown said.

“New Zealand's prohibition on advertising medicines yet to be consented by Medsafe is a barrier to New Zealand's ability to host medical conferences and trade shows. The opportunity cost of New Zealand missing out on these is huge,” Mr Seymour said.

Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) has been advocating for a change to Section 20 of the Medicines Act 1981 for many years and BEIA Chief Executive Lisa Hopkins says today's announcement means medical conference organisers from around the world can now plan ahead with confidence.

“The global business events industry is worth USD 2.1 trillion, and the medical and pharmaceutical sector is the second largest user of conferences to connect, educate, and inform professionals,” she says.

“By finally removing this barrier, New Zealand can now proactively approach those medical associations who in the past have taken New Zealand off their list because of this prohibition.

“BEIA has not been alone in fighting for this change. We are grateful for the tremendous support from Medicines NZ, who worked closely with BEIA on this issue and have also been ardent campaigners, as well as for the support of Business NZ. This helped convince the government to recognise the value of medical conferences and is a great example of multiple associations working together for a mutually beneficial outcome,” Hopkins says.

BEIA has also collaborated with Tourism New Zealand and MBIE on the Business Events Boost and with Immigration NZ on the visa process for delegates attending conferences in New Zealand.

"Conferences provide access to knowledge and innovation, offering insights that can be directly applied to benefit society. This is just one of the many ways the business events sector delivers value beyond economic and tourism contributions.

“Today's announcement represents another big step forward for our industry.”

ENDS

About BEIA

Business Events Industry Aotearoa (BEIA) is the official membership-based association representing New Zealand's business events sector which encompasses meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions.

BEIA brings together an industry membership from across regional convention bureaus, tourism, hotels, convention centres, event suppliers and event organisers working to grow and benefit the business events industry within New Zealand. Its efforts are aimed at creating positive outcomes for members, stakeholders, and the wider economy, encouraging both domestic and international opportunities.

BEIA owns and operates MEETINGS, Aotearoa New Zealand's largest national tradeshow dedicated to the business events sector. As the premier annual event of its kind, MEETINGS provides the platform for connecting influential buyers from New Zealand, Australia, and international markets with regional destinations, venues, accommodation providers, off-site experiences, and tourism offerings.

BEIA is also the custodian of Pīata Mai, the national strategic direction for New Zealand's business events sector. Launched in 2024, this 10-year strategy outlines a clear path for addressing the industry's challenges and unlocking sustainable growth opportunities.

Beyond advocacy, BEIA plays a central role in developing the sector's capability, offering professional development, education, and accreditation for individuals working in business events. The association represents more than 460 organisations and maintains an extensive network of buyers and organisers across New Zealand and Australia.

Through its work, BEIA continues to elevate the business events sector as a vital contributor to New Zealand's visitor economy and wider society.

For further information and images, please contact:

Anabel Darby
Tel: +64 21 668 090
Email: anabel@recreational.nz

At the AuSAE Demo Day, association professionals from across Australia and New Zealand gathered to explore the latest in Association Management Systems (AMS). Kicking off the event was a presentation by Tammy from Roundbox Consulting, who challenged attendees to think beyond feature lists and focus on what really matters when choosing an AMS or CRM.

Tammy’s core message was clear: “Most AMS platforms can meet your basic needs—but it’s the how, not the what, that defines the right fit for your association.” Her presentation outlined five critical areas of risk and opportunity that can make or break your system investment:

Confidence in the Vendor

Choosing a vendor is more than selecting software—it’s choosing a long term partner.. Tammy encouraged associations to look into vendor stability, local support availability, and long-term pricing transparency. "You’ll be working with this vendor for many years," she noted. “Make sure you feel confident picking up the phone and calling them.”

Futureproofing Your Solution

Associations evolve. So should your AMS. Tammy stressed the importance of selecting a platform that is configurable, integrates easily with other tools and systems, investment in ai and comes with a clear product roadmap. “What you need in the future could be very different to what you need today," she said. “Think about your strategic roadmap looks like and whether or not it aligns with their solution roadmap.” she reminded the association professionals.

Ease of Use

Tammy advised that a technically brilliant system won’t deliver value if it’s too complex to use. Assess the interface, training requirements, and how intuitively staff and members can navigate the platform. “A system that is hard to use simply won’t be used,” she mentioned.

Cybersecurity

In an era of increasing digital threats, Tammy encouraged associations not to gloss over cybersecurity. Her checklist included multifactor authentication, understand data storage locations (including backups) and requirements, recent penetration testing, and vetting of vendor staff. “Cybersecurity risks are often overlooked in the AMS selection process and that can be a costly mistake.”

Your Team’s Readiness

Tammy also placed the spotlight on internal project preparedness. From setting realistic timelines to ensuring your data is cleaned up in advance, she reminded attendees that successful implementations are just as dependent on the association’s readiness as the vendor’s.  “It’s your team’s readiness that will impact the schedule. It’s usually not the vendor causing delays.”

This presentation was a timely reminder that selecting the right AMS isn’t just about features—it’s about fit, flexibility, and future focus. Whether you’re about to start your search or deep into vendor demos, this is essential viewing.

Explore the full range of demos from iMIS, Causeis, Glue Up, Membes, ToucanTech, Klevr Members, and MemberConnex—plus tools and expert resources from AuSAE Demo Day: www.ausae.org.au/ams-demo-day

The Australasian Society of Association Executives (AuSAE) is proud to announce a strategic partnership with Sidecar, a leading educator on disruptive technology for the association sector. This exciting collaboration introduces AuSAE members to Sidecar’s AI Learning Hub – a dynamic platform designed to equip association professionals with the tools, skills, and knowledge needed to confidently lead in the age of artificial intelligence.

As the role of AI grows across industries, AuSAE remains committed to providing expertly developed, research-backed resources uniquely tailored for associations, empowering our members to adapt, thrive, and lead with impact.

The AI Learning Hub delivers:

• On-Demand AI Lessons – Curated for association professionals and continuously updated to reflect the latest in AI innovation.
• Association AI Professional (AAiP) Certification – A prestigious credential for those seeking to demonstrate advanced AI knowledge and leadership within the association space.
• Weekly Live Office Hours – Direct access to AI experts in real time, enabling personalised guidance and practical insights.
• Comprehensive Use Case Library - Access to short-form “how-to” style videos that walk association professionals through practical applications of different AI tools.

“This partnership is a key step forward in supporting our members as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of AI,” said Toni Brearley, CEO of AuSAE. “Through Sidecar’s AI Learning Hub, we are empowering association leaders to not just keep up with change – but to lead it.”

“This partnership represents a pivotal moment for AI in the association space,” said Sofi Giglio, Sidecar’s Manager of Sales and Partnerships. “With a goal of educating 1 million association professionals on AI by 2030, we’re thrilled to collaborate with AuSAE to bring this vital knowledge to an international audience.”

As of today, the AI Learning Hub is available to AuSAE members here. Gain access the platform and begin your AI journey now!

Get Started Today

Media Contact:
Sarah Gamble
Communications & Marketing Manager, AuSAE
sarah@ausae.org.au

AI Learning Hub Contact:
Sofi Giglio
Manager of Sales and Partnerships, Sidecar
sofi@sidecar.ai